Girls on the Run-Chicago is excited to announce that ABC7's Michelle Gallardo will be our SoleMates and Programs spokeswoman in 2013

"You're not just running to pursue your own goals, but those of all the girls who are counting on you so they can fulfill their own dreams... "

In addition to being an Emmy-nominated reporter, Michelle is an outstanding endurance athlete. She has competed in several half-marathons and half-ironman races, and even completed the Chicago Marathon for the first time in 2011. But her biggest challenge to date was to cross the finish line at Ironman Cozumel at the end of 2012. That is a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike ride AND a 26.2 mile run! Having done all that, Michelle understands the power physical fitness has to boost self confidence in young women. She is very much looking forward to being a part of our SoleMates program and to being a mentor for our girls. 

Born in Mexico City, Michelle is a dual citizen of the United States and Mexico. She is fully bilingual and bicultural, having been raised between both Mexico City and New York.  She received her undergraduate degree in international relations from the Universidad de las Americas-Puebla in Mexico. Michelle also holds a Master's Degree in Broadcast Journalism from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.

Michelle hopes that you will join her as a SoleMate charity athlete for Girls on the Run! She will be running the Berlin Marathon, among several other races, later this year. You can support Michelle as she prepares for the Berlin Marathon by visiting her SoleMates fundraising page.